This rounders bat was confiscated from a Plaistow schoolboy after teachers found it in his bag.

Police were called to Lister Community School in St Mary’s Road last week following reports that a pupil was in possession of a weapon.

The 16-year-old was arrested and bailed until later next month, pending further enquiries.

Anthony Wilson, the school’s headteacher, said: “We have zero tolerance for any behaviour that puts others at risk, and work very closely with Newham Council and Newham police to ensure the safety of all members of the school community.

“This has led to the major improvements in behaviour and the calm environment in the school commented on in our recent Ofsted report.”